Black Friday shoppers are expected to spend $10.8 billion this year — up nearly 10% over last year.
gettyThis year, Black Friday sales are projected to hit a staggering $10.8 billion — that’s a nearly 10% pop in sales compared to last year, which suggests sustained consumer interest and a rise in retail spending this holiday season.
More than 76 million Americans trekked out to brick-and-mortar stores on Black Friday last year, keeping the two-year streak alive as the most popular day of the year to shop. If the projections and weather hold, this year could be even busier.
To face those holiday hordes, and keep your holiday cheer, you need the best Black Friday AI Hacks to help you save your time, money and peace of mind — which might bring a little bit of peace on earth, where every you might be!
Below are five savvy shopping prompts in italics and quotation marks that can be further customized for your regional stores or cut-and-pasted just as they are into any free generative AI model you want to use. Each query also has a mini-explainer as to why it’s included here.
In case you’re wondering, each prompt follows a basic prompt structure that’s easy and effective to use — Context, Action and Outcome also known as the CAO model. This model gives a simple framework to write clear prompts to spur effective communications with AI models. It strives to provide direct and actionable instructions while focusing on the end goal if you want to try writing your own generative AI prompts.
Black Friday Prompt 1 — Finding The Best Deals
“Provide a step-by-step guide on how to locate early Black Friday deals and preview ads before their official release. Include reliable sources, tools and timing strategies.”
Rationale: This prompt will help purchasers get a head start on securing the best deals, using insider strategies. With early access to the deals, buyers can plan ahead and prioritize purchases without missing items with limited stock. Previewing ads before they are officially released may also give shoppers the chance to compare offers between different retailers.
Black Friday Prompt 2 — Using Price Tracking Tools
“Explain how to use price tracking tools to secure the best Black Friday deals. Include examples of tools, setup instructions and tips for monitoring price changes effectively.”
Rationale: This prompt helps you learn how to take advantage of technology to make better buying decisions because many consumers don’t even know these price tracking apps exist! Price trackers follow price fluctuations and inform users when prices have gone down to customized ranges within the preferred tool.
They help verify whether that Black Friday bargain is really a bargain or just a marketing ploy.
Black Friday Prompt 3 — Coupon Stacking
“List and describe the most effective coupon stacking methods to maximize savings during Black Friday sales. Include examples of retailers that allow stacking and any relevant restrictions or policies.”
Rationale: To understand this prompt you need to first get the concept that retailers and manufacturers can offer special discounts and bundles that are only available during Black Friday hours.
Coupon stacking involves combining multiple discounts for a single purchase or bundling complimentary purchases as part of promotional deals (e.g. buying a new gaming console and then getting a deeply discounted gaming chair while supplies last), can boost your savings and buying power.
The key here is knowing the coupon stacking policies, quantities and time restrictions for each store to avoid missed opportunities.
Black Friday Prompt 4 — Live Discount Deal Alerts
“Identify the most reliable websites and apps for real-time Black Friday deal alerts. Provide usage instructions, notification setup tips and examples of deals frequently featured.”
Rationale: The old adage that “time is money” applies to Black Friday, and this prompt helps buyers stay updated and act fast on the best deals. Real-time deal alerts keep savvy shoppers in the know when there are time-sensitive discounts or flash sales. Understanding which of these platforms offers timely and correct information can definitely give prepared purchasers the edge they need.
Black Friday Prompt 5 — Strategic Shopping
“Create a detailed guide for developing a strategic shopping plan for Black Friday. Include tips for budgeting, prioritizing deals and navigating both online and in-store shopping efficiently.”
Rationale: This query assists in crafting a personalized shopping blueprint to maximize savings and efficiency. It may sound silly but Black Friday purchasers are all competing for scarce resources – so a mercenary mentality and plan of action are needed to succeed, otherwise buyers are just leaving it to chance.
A strategic plan can help shoppers focus purchasing options, conserve time and keep their budget in check, without getting overwhelmed by so many deals.
Shopping On Black Friday Is Not For The Faint Hearted
Staking out a store at midnight in the chill of November to be first in line for Black Friday like you’re buying tickets for a Taylor Swift concert is not for everyone.
In fact, the overwhelming majority of shopping this long holiday weekend is projected to occur on Cyber Monday when 71% of Americans are expected to spend $13.2 billion for their seasonal purchases.
However, these generative AI hacks can come in handy on Black Friday, and who can’t use an extra hand during the holidays — even if that extra hand is coming from artificial intelligence.
